Stray Injured / Sick Animal Response
Rescue and Investigation Services (RIS) responds to and provides emergency transportation for injured and sick animals that are straying at large. RIS responds to animal emergencies from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m., seven days a week. Outside of those hours please contact one of the two 24-hour veterinary clinics for assistance.
- Ottawa Veterinary Hospital 613-729-6139
- Alta Vista Animal Hospital 613-731-9911
If you observe an injured or sick animal please contact our Rescue and Emergency Services at 613-725-1532.
Once an animal is rescued, it is transported to the Ottawa Humane Society (OHS) or to a veterinary clinic (after regular OHS hours) to be examined and its condition stabilized. If the animal has sustained extensive injuries and is in immediate distress, and where the owner cannot be located within a reasonable amount of time, the animal may be humanely euthanized to prevent further suffering. All decisions on treatment and euthanasia are in consultation with a veterinarian. The OHS makes every attempt to find the owner — but please do your part by ensuring that your animal companions are identified with a microchip, collar and tag! If the animal's owner is located, he or she is required to reimburse the OHS for all expenses incurred in caring for the animal companion.
If you have been bitten or scratched by a stray animal, please seek immediate medical attention and contact the City of Ottawa, By-Law Enforcement Division at 3-1-1 for follow up regarding the stray animal.
